Two Australian youngsters are reportedly combating for all times in Thailand, with fears they suffered methanol poisoning whereas ingesting alcohol in neighbouring Laos.
The pair from Melbourne had been staying at a hostel in Vang Vieng, north of the Laos’ capital, Vientiane, after they fell critically in poor health final week, 3AW reported.
Mates Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles “fell sufferer to an an obvious case of methanol poisoning” and have been combating for his or her lives in Thai hospitals, the chair of Information Corp’s Herald & Weekly Occasions, Penny Fowler, mentioned in an e mail to employees. Fowler confirmed that Jones’ mom is employed by the newspaper group.
“Our ideas and prayers are with Bianca and Holly, their households and all the opposite victims of this tragedy,” Fowler mentioned.
The placement of the suspected poisoning has not been recognized.
Nana Hostel proprietor Duong van Huan informed the ABC the ladies, believed to be 19, had been ingesting at a bar and have been taken to hospital after changing into unwell on Wednesday morning.
“This has by no means occurred on the hostel. My enterprise takes care of everybody. We by no means do something incorrect,” the proprietor informed the broadcaster.
“I’m unsure what occurred however on the hostel we solely promote drinks, whiskey, cocktails and police have already checked all the pieces.
“The entire alcohol now we have is secure. In eight years, this has by no means occurred.”
The Division of Overseas Affairs and Commerce mentioned consular help was being supplied to 2 Australians and their households in Thailand.
“Our ideas are with them at this deeply distressing time,” a spokesperson mentioned.
“Owing to our privateness obligations we’re unable to supply additional remark.”
Victorian minister Steve Dimopoulos described it as a tragedy.
“What was meant to be a lovely vacation stuffed with recollections has led to absolute tragedy, and all of us consider those who we love who journey for the enjoyment,” Dimopoulos informed reporters on Tuesday.
“My ideas exit to them and their households, and we’ll clearly discover out what precisely occurred, but it surely’s an absolute tragedy.”
It’s understood Jones and Bowles pair graduated from secondary faculties in Melbourne’s south-east in 2023.
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